Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of warmth on a chilly day, you’ve come to the right place! This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not just any soup; it’s like a big, cozy hug in a bowl. The blend of rich tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a delicious harmony that will make your taste buds dance. What makes this recipe truly special is how it sneaks in some hidden vegetables, making it both wholesome and satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for lunch, this soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to whip up and can easily be made ahead of time, ensuring you always have a delightful meal ready to go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious soup without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and rich flavors, making it an instant hit at home.
• Make-ahead magic: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge, so you can make it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste—you’ll never get bored!
• Serves a crowd: Perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping, this recipe makes enough for eight servings—sharing is caring!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this creamy Tomato Basil Soup. You might already have many of these in your pantry!

For the Soup Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes (with the juice)
• 2 carrots (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 1 small onion (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 3 ribs celery (finely diced, about 1 cup)
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves

For the Creamy Mixture

• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1½ cups half and half (or whole milk)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil

Variations

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to customize it:

• Add extra greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients without compromising flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during cooking.
• Swap the cheese: Try using nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan twist.
• Mix up the herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to give it your own unique flair.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by adding olive oil to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the finely diced carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté them for just a few minutes until they soften. This step is important because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and forms a lovely base for our soup.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Next, add those vibrant diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, and dried basil into the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it cook for several minutes until those veggies are tender and aromatic—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 3: Purée Until Smooth

For that creamy texture we all love, use an immersion blender right in the pot or transfer batches into a regular blender. Blend until smooth—this step is optional if you prefer a chunkier soup! Once blended (if you choose), return it back to the pot.

Step 4: Prepare the Roux

In a separate pot over medium-low heat, melt butter. Stir in flour constantly for about ten minutes until it turns golden brown. This roux will thicken our soup beautifully! It’s crucial not to rush this step; patience leads to that perfect rich texture.

Step 5: Combine Roux with Soup

Now comes the fun part! Add a big ladle full of your fragrant soup into the roux—it’ll create a thick paste. Gradually mix more soup into this mixture until smooth before adding everything back into your main pot. Stir well so all that creamy goodness combines perfectly!

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Cream

Stir in parmesan cheese along with half and half (or whole milk), salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Don’t forget to taste—adjust seasonings as needed! Let it warm through for just a few more minutes until it’s ready to serve.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve your creamy Tomato Basil Soup warm with crusty bread or even try it in homemade bread bowls! And remember—any leftovers can be stored covered in your fridge for up to one week.

Enjoy every spoonful of this heartwarming dish; it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Making this creamy Tomato Basil Soup can be a delightful experience, and with a few extra tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. If they’re in season, opt for vine-ripened tomatoes and freshly picked basil for that garden-fresh taste.

• Blend to your desired texture: If you enjoy a chunky soup, you can skip blending all the way. Mixing just half of the soup will maintain some texture while allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference to create a dish that’s perfectly suited to you.

• Experiment with spices: To add depth to your soup, consider incorporating spices like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes. This can give your soup an unexpected twist that adds excitement to every spoonful.

• Make it ahead: Soups often taste better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Preparing this dish in advance allows it to sit overnight in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

Serving this creamy Tomato Basil Soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides. Here are some ideas to make your meal truly special!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top not only look beautiful but also add a burst of fresh flavor.
• Croutons: Toasted bread pieces add a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the smoothness of the soup.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving enhances flavor and gives an appealing sheen.

Side Dishes

• Grilled cheese sandwich: This classic pairing is unbeatable! The gooey melted cheese complements the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons makes a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the soup.
• Garlic bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is great for dipping into your tomato basil soup; it’s sure to be a hit at any table.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables provides a nutritious side that adds color and flavor diversity to your meal.

Enjoying this creamy Tomato Basil Soup is not just about savoring each spoonful; it’s about creating a cozy atmosphere with delicious pairings. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy Tomato Basil Soup is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully and can easily be reheated for a quick, comforting meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to one week.
• Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to preserve freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to three months. Label your container with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions, heating them in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe!

Can I make Creamy Tomato Basil Soup vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, use non-dairy milk instead of half and half, and skip the parmesan cheese or opt for a vegan cheese substitute.

How can I enhance my Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

For added flavor, consider adding roasted garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also complement the taste nicely!

What should I serve with my Creamy Tomato Basil Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh salad. You could even serve it in a homemade bread bowl for an extra special treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this creamy Tomato Basil Soup as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also packed with veggies that make it a wholesome choice. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!